Public Statements

Press Release

U.S. Sen. Carl Levin and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, who chairs the Senate Agriculture Committee, today announced that 34 Michigan farmers and small businesses will receive grants of up to $20,000 to implement renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives in their operations. The $503,848 in grants by the U.S. Department of Agriculture are made in conjunction with President Obama's rural economic bus tour in the Midwest this week.

"These rural farmers and small business owners are showing how they can lead the way in improving our energy efficiency, saving them thousands of dollars in energy costs each year," Levin said. "These federal dollars will make it easier for businesses and farms to invest in these technologies, which will help our nation meet its goal of reducing our dependence on foreign fuels."

"By implementing energy efficiency measures or developing renewable energy systems, our rural business leaders and agricultural producers are harnessing the power of innovation and homegrown energy to fuel and grow their businesses," Stabenow said. "As Chairwoman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I'm focused on encouraging small business growth and giving our rural business leaders the tools they need to expand, profit and create more jobs."

The grants are provided through the Rural Energy for America Program, part of the 2008 Farm Bill. Grants can finance up to 25 percent of a project's total cost.

Details of the Michigan recipients are detailed on Levin's website. Follow the URL to access.